Ortofon OM Q.Bert on SH-4 Black (DJ System)

The Ortofon OM Q.Bert is a scratch cartridge with a spherical stylus that comes factory-mounted on a black, printed SH-4 headshell.

The cartridge bears the name of DJ Q.Bert, one of the greats of turntablism – and the insect print on the headshell makes it clear that background music is not what this is about.

Why the OM Q.Bert?

Because of its key figures for scratch practice: 11 mV output is a lot even for a DJ cartridge, 90 µm trackability keeps the stylus in the groove during fast moves, and Ortofon promises exceptionally low wear. The universal SH-4 headshell fits a wide range of S-shaped tonearms and turns switching between decks into a matter of seconds.

What you get

A very high-level, rugged signal that cuts through well in the mix. The spherical stylus is tuned for groove hold and longevity, not for audiophile finesse. With a recommended tracking force of 3 g and a permissible range of 2 to 4 g, you have room for fine-tuning on the tonearm.

Who is the OM Q.Bert for?

For turntablists, battle DJs and anyone who wants a dedicated scratch cartridge. Straight talk: If you play long sets or digitise records, an elliptical tip such as the VNL DANCE will serve you better. And if you don't like the look: the insect print doesn't sound any different, it just stands out.

Our verdict

A scratch cartridge that means business: lots of level, good groove hold, ready mounted. Exactly the right tool for turntablism – less so for a cosy Sunday listening session.

Technical specifications

• Type: DJ cartridge (OM series), premounted on headshell (bayonet/SME connection)
• Headshell: Ortofon SH-4, black, printed
• Stylus tip: spherical, radius 18 µm
• Output voltage: 11 mV (1 kHz, 5 cm/s)
• Recommended tracking force: 3 g (range 2–4 g)
• Trackability: 90 µm (315 Hz)
• Channel separation: 22 dB (1 kHz)
• Channel balance: 1.5 dB (1 kHz)
• Compliance (dynamic, lateral): 12 µm/mN
• Vertical tracking angle: 20°
• Internal impedance (DC): 1,680 Ohm
• Inductance: 920 mH
• Recommended load: 47 kOhm, 200–400 pF
• Weight: 5 g (cartridge without headshell)
• Replacement stylus: Stylus Q.Bert
• In the box: OM Q.Bert cartridge, factory-mounted on SH-4 headshell black

Frequently asked questions

How much output does the OM Q.Bert have?

The OM Q.Bert delivers 11 mV at 1 kHz and 5 cm/s. That's roughly twice as much as a typical hi-fi MM cartridge and gives a strong signal with plenty of headroom at the DJ mixer. You can turn the gain on the mixer down accordingly, which benefits the signal-to-noise ratio.

What tracking force does the OM Q.Bert need?

Ortofon recommends 3 g, with a permissible range of 2 to 4 g. For maximum groove hold when scratching, move towards 4 g; for gentler playback, towards 3 g. What matters is that your tonearm can set this range accurately – which is the case with common DJ turntables.

Will the SH-4 headshell fit my tonearm?

The SH-4 has a universal bayonet (SME) connection and therefore fits a wide range of S-shaped tonearms, as found on most DJ turntables. Straight tonearms with a fixed headshell, on the other hand, are not compatible. If you're unsure, just send us the model of your turntable and we'll check it.

Why buy the OM Q.Bert from HD Zürisee?

Because we don't just serve you on price – we ask about your style: scratch, mix or both? That tells us whether the Q.Bert, a VNL or a Concorde is right for you. Get in touch with HD Zürisee in Wädenswil by phone, WhatsApp or at shop@hdzuerisee.ch – we're happy to help.

Goes well with

A solid turntable as the foundation, matching turntable accessories and the other Ortofon systems for comparison.